Barcelona Need Alex Song – Former Arsenal Man Fran Merida

Former Arsenal midfielder Fran Merida believes that Alex Song’s defensive capabilities would prove to be a great addition to the Barcelona squad.

The Cameroonian defensive midfielder has emerged as one of the top priorities of the Cules this summer, with coach Tito Vilanova wanting to add the midfielder to cover defensive weaknesses at the Camp Nou.

And ex-Blaugrana academy product Merida believes that his former team-mate, Song, can contribute much to Barcelona, and noted that the Arsenal man’s physical abilities are much needed at the club.

"I think Song is a player who can contribute a lot to Barcelona because he is a very good player, and has technical and the all-important physical qualities”, said the former Atletico Madrid midfielder to COMRadio.

The 22-year-old Spaniard also praised the simple nature of the Cameroonian international and added that even though he may cost the Catalan giants a substantial sum, he will be worth it.

“Song is a guy who is always cheerful, always smiling. He is very playful and is a very good person”, said Merida.

“He will cost Barca a lot at first but he will quickly start to deliver as Barcelona’s style of play is similar to Arsenal’s”, he added.

The now-Hercules player was a team-mate of the 24-year-old from 2007-2010 during his time at the Emirates Stadium.